Ropelato's + Coy's = Fun

Our Thanksgiving Tradition has been altered and adjusted.  Sherwood Hills was sold and isn't a place for families anymore.  I think it's a correctional center of some sort.  I couldn't believe it.....didn't they consider us families that came every year (like 20) for the Thanksgiving Weekend?  We even use to get the same room for many years.....so sad.  I didn't know how we would adjust but Tonya's family came up with a great idea.  We would plan Fun around here.  Having our families together is the important part.

We went to breakfast in Roy and those who could come did.  It was all decided just a few days earlier and so a lot of us had other things planned already but that's okay.  We usually just have suggestions and those who want to participate can.  (Larry and our boys were fencing so the cows won't get out)

After breakfast we met at the Bowling Alley in Roy and to our surprise we were the only ones there for a minute or so and then others came.  More of my family showed up to bowl and we all had a great time. I like bowling with our families.  It's so fun seeing everyone improve and have a good time.  I enjoy seeing everyone visit and get reacquainted. The little's don't see each other often enough to remember each other but it never takes them long to renew their friendships with each other.

We then went to our house.  It was suggested that we rent a church but our house has enough room and is more cozy.  The guys went out in the field and shot skeet.  They were gone for quite awhile. Those of us who didn't want to shoot were just visiting and having a good time.  It's so nice having a day set aside especially for our families.  We have so many good memories of our Thanksgiving Tradition.  It's a favorite of mine!

When the guys came back in we had soup and snacks ready.  More visiting took place as we ate.

After we cleaned up from eating we played some "Minute To Win It" games.  Amity brought everything we needed and took charge.  Right off she made Tonya and I captain of teams and made us choose teams. Tough Love....she called it!  How do you pick?  I hate picking teams because I always worry about hurting someone's feelings.  Tonya and I decided quickly between ourselves to choose the youngest first and work our way up.  It worked out fine and I don't think any feelings were hurt.  The games were so fun and we all laughed and had a great time.  I think my team ended up winning by one but it didn't matter.  We all had a fun time.  I told Amity she should save her ideas and we could repeat them in years to come.  It was fun watching everyone participate and have a good time.

Then we put a movie on for the kids and those who wanted played a "Quarter" game.  You needed $3 worth of quarters to play.  It was fun but I think instead of quarters we could use penny's or candy.  (I don't like losing money....however I didn't mind seeing others win....so it's all good...it's just $3....unless you provide 6 others with their quarters)  It was fun.  Playing games together is always so much fun and we have learned some really fun games over the years.

I'm glad we didn't let this tradition slip away with the selling of Sherwood Hills.  I hope that getting together with the Coy's will continue for many years....like forever!

What a fun few days....very long days but loaded with lot's of fun, laughter and love!

Gobble Gobble

This year I hosted the Ropelato Thanksgiving Dinner.  Darinda and I take turns and have done so for many years.  I like knowing what to expect from year to year. Before we started taking turns I always felt so uncertain of what to expect on Thanksgiving....I love knowing where our family will be and who we will be celebrating with.

We had a pretty good group this year and we enjoyed the whole day together.  The first to arrive came around noon and the last to leave was after 11:00 so it was a long day filled with lots of love and food. The weather was nice and the kids loved playing outside.

I love how the Holidays bring families together. It's a time of year we do take time to visit with our loved ones.  Shari and her family came from Pennsylvania to spend the Holiday with us.  It's so fun seeing them.  Jared and Cameron can't get enough of each other....so great seeing the love between cousins.

It was a fun day and very little stress.  I did get a head ache about a half hour before anyone showed up and I did get a bit upset when I went to get something from a cupboard and things had been shoved in there and were a mess.  I growled and shed a few tears and it was over. (the headache meds kicked in quick) The rest of the day was wonderful....

I'm Thankful for everything little thing I have and enjoy.  I am most Thankful for Family and Friends and the time we get to share together making memories.  I am Thankful for a Loving Heavenly Father who is the source of ALL blessings....not the Universe or anything else....our Blessing our from Heavenly Father....every single one.

Build Me up Buttercup

That "title" just popped in my head...so there it will be.  Build Me up Buttercup!  When we are having a hard time it's nice to have friends to tell that will love us and build us up.  Today a little bit of that was done for Davaleen.  Dave had been on my mind and wondered if she was okay.  I knew that her daughter had been giving her some problems and since I haven't heard from her much I thought I'd better check.  Good thing I did!  Some unpleasant things have happened and she needed some friends.

I was a little late because I forgot a "Sunshine" Bag for her and I knew she truly needed it.  I text her to tell her I'd be late because I had to turn around but I'd be right there.  Funny that the thought had crossed her mind that I might have a treat for her!  Good thing I did...honestly that has happened before...someone thinking that I might be bringing them a treat.  I don't think that is a coincident..I just don't.  

We went for breakfast since Davaleen works in the afternoon.  It was a great way to start the day.  So much better than walking in the cold temps we are having and freezing my bottom off. (if it would freeze my middle off...I'd go no matter how cold)  I love that Kathy lives close and likes to go too.  It's fun spending time with her and I know that it helps her health issues by getting out.  Glad we are all able to bless each other.  Friends are such an important part of my life....I'm glad I have such wonderful ones!

Lots of Sunshine

Well this weekend was a good weekend for Scattering Sunshine.  I knew I was suppose to give a Sunshine bag to Heather and The Malone's but have waited....okay procrastinated.  But Yippee...I did it this weekend.  I gave Heather one on our way to the play.  Heather deserves more than a Sunshine Bag for everything she does and has been through.  Her little path in life has not been easy but she has managed to keep a smile and push forward anyway.  Heather is my Hero.

The Briggs recently moved and I knew that they could really use a little Sunshine Scattered their way. I have really learned to love this family.  They are a good family and try so hard at so many things.  They are always busy improving and developing their talents and supporting each other.  I really like them and they have shown much kindness to me.

The Malone's are just great.  They sacrifice so much time for  Building Up The Kingdom of God. It's not easy being  so involved in the Gospel and being stretched and shared by so many.  They have my love and support and should have their ticket now to enter into the Celestial Kingdom.  I love them and appreciate them!

 Davaleen is wonderful.  Her life has not been easy but she manages to smile and get through each day.  She is so caring and takes care of her mother and does so much for her kids.  Davaleen is a kind person.  I hope and pray that she never gives up.  She has been a blessing in my life!

***Time to make more Sunshine Bags***

In The Heights...Musical

Lucky me....two plays in one week.  Larry and I went to Guys & Dolls performed at Fremont High on Friday night which was really good.  The kids did such a wonderful job and the scenery was awesome. I was very impressed.  We went because Kimleighel was part of the "Pit".  She was playing in the Orchestra and was so pleased to be there.  She loves playing her Cello and wanted us to come listen.  It was a very fun.  (not sure ...well I am sure....Larry didn't enjoy it like I did....he's a good sport...course I am too....I don't enjoy his senior games quite as much as he does...we compromise...we're happy!)

On Saturday Night I went with the ladies to "In The Heights".  I always enjoy my night with these ladies.  It's a long drive but it never seems that long because we talk so much.  It was a fun night and this play was really fun and up beat.  I loved the accents and fast pace.  I love the talent of people.  I marvel at others gifts. (I find myself wishing that I could sing and dance and perform)  Cari and I had a little fun taking pics while the others went p........We had a hard time taking our own picture and others offered to take them for us.  Whoever took our group picture must of been shaky...he took two pictures and they were both blurry.  Oh well....it still shows our group and helps me keep this memory in my mind.  I need pictures at this point to remember.  I pretty much love my life!

We don't read much!

We had book club today but we didn't discuss any books.  Funny little book club huh?  I returned a few books that I had read but that's about all we did as far as books were concerned.  Some times it's just harder to read I guess.  In fact, now that Larry is home more I feel like I need to spend time with him.  He enjoys watching a movie at night and that is when I use to read but I have been watching movies with him and will continue to for awhile.  I've missed him and until he starts annoying me (jk) I will watch movies instead of read.  I will find time to read.  I might not have as much as in years past but that's okay I have learned to be flexible.

Today we met at a place that serves Indian food.  It was good but my dish was pretty spicy.  I liked the others better however I ate all mine.  I ordered Mango Chicken thinking it would be sweet and tangy....I couldn't tell it was made from mango....and it wasn't sweet or tangy.  I would go there again and I think I would just get the buffet where there are more choices just in case I  didn't love something.

I love the friendships we have made.  We are all so different in our book club but have bonded with each other.  I admire all these women and enjoy sharing their thoughts and insight .  They are a blessing to me and I am smarter because of the things they have encouraged me to read.

My evening was blessed with a few grands.  I absolutely love when the grands come and play.  I have been blessed with each of them this week.  Oh Happy Happy Day!

Festival of Trees Delivery

I packed up my container of gifts and headed to West Jordan today.  I am responsible for supplying the Gift Shoppe with 15 items to sell.  Thank goodness for some friends that brought me things last year. I saved them for this year since I received them a little late.  I was so glad to have them.  I didn't make anything special  this year.  I will admit I get a little bit stressed with having to take so much.  I don't like asking for help and when I have asked I really haven't got much response.  So I am very thankful for the few that have helped me out.  Now I need to just decide what I will take for the Sweet Shoppe. I do feel good about helping with this wonderful event.  All profits go to the Primary Children's Hospital....everything is donated and so there is lots of profit!

I called Tammy this morning to see if she would like to go with me.  It's a great way to get a visit in. She was able to go and so I picked her up, set the GPS and we were off. (Heather moved when she married and so I had no idea where I was going....I love GPS) I always enjoy visiting with Tammy.  We energize each other and it seems we are able to help each other with our wisdom and experience.

Seeing Heather was great.   Truly it's because of Heather I am even involved in the Festival of Trees.  She asked me to be on her committee and I couldn't say no.  Plus, this way I get to see her a few times before Christmas.  Heather is amazing and inspires me to step up my life.  She's such a positive, busy, kind, spiritual person and I truly love her.  Cindee introduced me to Heather's blog years ago and that is how we met.  Funny how things happen.

Tammy and I made it a day.  I told her that we needed to stop by the Gateway and get some chocolate cake from Tucano's...it's so yummy.  We thought we'd better eat something healthy first and so we stopped and got a salad on our way.  I saw Shelly Green and her daughter Melanie which was kind of funny since we were in West Jordan.  It was nice seeing them even though I had just saw Shelly the day before at our grands Primary Program.  I was able to hug her today which is always nice.  (I love hugs)  After lunch we made it to the Gateway and got our cake to go.  When I dropped Tammy off at home we had a little bit of it.  That cakes lasts me a few days.  It's just so big and hits the spot quick!  I'm glad it's not convenient or close....I can get over it.  Fun Day!

I Must Talk to Much

This year I have been making my blog book as I do my blog...or pretty close.  I blog and then transfer it to my blog book.  I just found out as I was catching up my book that Blurb has a page limit and I have reached it.  Well what the heck!

Now I am going back over my year and trying to decide what isn't important. (it must have meant something to me for me to post it)  I already thought I was simplifying so I'm not sure what to do.  I have decided to make a Scatter Sunshine book and that will eliminate a few pages.....I will transfer those posts to my new book.  I still need room for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Eve.....

I guess I've had a bit more fun this year or at least talked a little more.  I didn't post as many separate pictures...I made more collages and I'm hoping they won't be too small when the book is printed.  Oh well....I guess I will post less or go back to my book and to some squishing of posts.  ***My mom always said that once I started talking (when I was 3) I didn't stop. ☺  I like talking

Felties for Festival of Trees

I'm on a committee for the Festival of Trees.  I joined a committee a few years ago and it has been a lot of work but fun.  It's all worth the time and money I spend because all proceeds from the Festival of Trees goes to the Primary Children's Hospital.  Each year as a committee member I am in charge of making 15 felties, (my leader tells us what to make) either making or getting donations for 15 items for the Gift Store and 15 items for the Sweet Shoppe.

Today my mom and sister came over and helped me make the felties. It didn't take long with their help and I really appreciated that they were willing to help me out.  I have a hard time asking for help or donations and usually end up buying & doing everything myself.  I usually post something on FB about the gift shop and I did have a few people donate some things last year that I saved for this year.  (I received their donations later than I needed them)  It's a little bit stressful sometimes but I am always glad that I am able to help this wonderful cause.  I also am asked to volunteer  two 3-hour shifts at the Festival of Trees.  The last two years I just take back to back shifts so I don't have to drive down two days.

I was quite frustrated today when I couldn't find the candy I had put away to fill the felties.  I remember where I first put it but it wasn't there.  I slightly remembered putting it somewhere else that it wouldn't be seen at all but I could not find it.  I looked everywhere I could think of a few times.  I prayed over and over....finally hours later...like 6 I went in the laundry room again and looked in all the same spots again. My laundry room is messy....it is also my craft room...and catch all room.  I had some scarfs on the counter by the box with the gifts for the Gift Shop and this time I decided to lift the scarfs up and "surprise" there it was.  Relief!  The felties are now filled and ready to deliver on Monday!  I just have to put cellophane wrap around the Gift Shop items now so they will also be ready.  Then I have to decide what I am going to make for the Sweet Shoppe so I can take it with me when I volunteer on December 4th.

Zaden's Birthday Sleepover

Since Kamryn wanted to spend the night for her birthday last April it has become a tradition for all the grands to spend the night with me for their birthday.  Zaden got to stay with us last night.  He was so excited and cute.  I think we all enjoy having the grands over.  Braxton even brought a movie over for us to watch together.  He snuggled up to Zaden but it wasn't long and Zaden was scooting away...sleeping bag and all.  He's so stinkin cute.  He woke up bright and early with the rest of us and was full of smiles.  He wasn't interested in climbing in bed with me and grandpa but he did give us hugs and smiles.

I love the one on one with the kids every now and then.  It didn't happen and doesn't happen much with my own kids and I know it won't with the grands but their birthdays are a great time to make it happen.  I hope they always know how special they are to us and how much they are loved.

Ask and You Shall Receive

I love Chocolate and usually have a stash.  I keep treats in a jar in the cabinet that is part of my bed. My grands like to getting  into it and I try to keep it full of treats that they like.  There are a few chocolate kisses in the jar but I had forgot about them.  I ate the last of my chocolate bar...and I was out of my yummy crunch & violet crumbles....in fact I was just out!  I don't like being out. I like just knowing that I have chocolate just in case I ever feel the need for it. (I'm addicted...it's true)

I posted on Face Book that I was out and I have friends that have my back.  Many were ready to come to my rescue and Amber did.  Amber has quite a goody stash of her own. (I saw pictures on Face Book)  The gal brought lots of treats to our special needs girls camp and I was lucky and she shared with me. (Amber would share with anyone but I don't think she let everyone know she had so much) Anyway since we would be seeing each other at our activity night she loaded a quart size bag up and brought it for me.  What a sweetheart!  I truly love Amber and the other ladies more than my chocolate.

There were many others that were willing to share until I could replenish my supply.  Even Shari said she would visit the Hershey Factory before coming for Thanksgiving.  I put in my request.  YeeHaw...more chocolate on it's way to my house!

Before I left for SNAP I grabbed a Sunshine Bag for Peggy and that's when I realized I wasn't really out of chocolate.  I have chocolate for the Sunshine Bags.  I was relieved to know that I really wasn't out completely like I had thought.  But  now I won't even need to take from my Sunshine Supplies. (haha.....I like the Sunshine Bag Supplies)  Chocolate just makes me Happy.....A little a day keeps the grumpies away. ☺

SNAP

It was my turn to teach tonight.  I prepared a lesson on Lehi's Dream and The Tree of Life.  We talked about the symbols and how they pertained to us.  The girls seemed interested.  At the end of the lesson I had the girls come up and put the word strips I had with the symbol that it represented.  We used the process of elimination for most of them.  I love these ladies!  They are so pure and good!

My friend and neighbor Peggy Saunders has been saving her cute little animals that she borrowed from her sister for our wards mutual activity to share with the special needs.  The girls loved it.  I had them tell me something they learned tonight and if they couldn't think of anything I had a bowl with some help.  Most everyone told me something and only a few used the help.  First they putted through the giraffes legs, then they got to toss a hula hoop over an elephants trunk.  Then I had them go to a table that had their books for their handouts.  They glued their handout in the book and went to the last place where they got to throw small balls through a lions mouth.  It was a great night.  (better because of Peggy)

I love this calling more than I would have thought.  I know that I have been preparing for it my whole life.  I have taught so many different ages and classes throughout my life and have a bunch of experience which is a huge advantage for me.  This is fun for me.  I like presenting a lesson and then playing a game reinforcing the lesson.  What a blessing this calling is.  I'm pretty sure I will be serving here for a few years and I am just fine with that.  These ladies love me and I know it.  Heck Amber even brought me a bag of chocolate because I mentioned I was out. (next post)  I love them all and it's fun getting to know them all better.  I found another "Happy Place"

Scattering Sunshine

I had to give a Scatter Sunshine bag to Peggy! She has been saving her sisters Wooden Zoo Animal's for me for a few months so that I could use them with the Special Needs Girls.  What a sweetheart Peggy is.  She even insisted on coming with me...in fact, she picked me up and took me to SNAP.  I enjoyed hanging out and visiting with Peggy on the drive to and fro.  I have always loved Peggy and remember her from when I was a young girl in YW...I remember her being a youth leader at our Stake Girl's Camp...she hasn't changed much and is still just as fun.  The picture kind of  backs that statement up.  Peggy was the Girls Camp Director a few years back and I was low man on the Totem Pole that year (beehive teacher) and had such a great time.  Peggy is just fun and wonderful!

Grands truly are Grand!

My fridge is never clear of pictures or reminders.  I am use to it being covered and sometimes I don't pay attention to what is there.  Today I noticed this cute picture that Ivy drew for me.  It made me smile.  I think she might have done this while I was in Kauai.  I love having grands and I love seeing them grow and learn and become themselves.  I love their little ways of showing love to their grandma. I had some art work from Kamryn too that I wanted to share....little artists!

The other day I was going to watch Mya and Parker while Natalie went to the Doctor.  I told them I might not be here when they came but I would be home in time for Natalie to leave on time.  I was home and I heard the garage door open...then the I heard this: "Grandma's here, Grandma's here!"  My grands all make my heart smile.  I love every thing about each one of them.  They are all so different and cute and I love them to pieces!

Company Party!

Tonight for TJ Trailers Company party we went to Tucano's at the Gateway.  It was a little longer drive but we were eating almost immediately.  It was fun and good.  You could tell who the youngest one there was....the one eating the most. (Jaydan)  The place took his plates from him and decided he was done. Crazy!

I like that TJ's has their work party early so that the employee's have their bonus's for Christmas.  The Company did better this year which we are all thankful for.  It's been down for many years and is slowly picking up.  I like everyone that works at TJ Trailers....they are all great people.  We missed Chris, Cindee and Evan tonight.  Not sure why Chris didn't make it but Evan had surgery and Cindee is the best wife and probably didn't tell anyone when this date was being set that her hubby was having surgery. (lot's of times the party lands on Evan's birthday...this year it was Ken & Carols Anniversary)

I got full pretty quickly but knew that I would be bringing some Chocolate Cake home with me.  Their cake is the best I have ever had....and huge! (breakfast for me...and probably lunch too)  Usually I can say No Thank You to cake but not here!

I'm thankful for this Company and hope that it will continue to do well for many more years.  They are honest and do good work.

A Good Excuse

I was glad that Jodi wanted to borrow the darling Scatter Sunshine sign she made me.  She used it for her Relief Society Enrichment Night.  I knew if she borrowed it we would get to meet up to exchange it.  Any excuse to meet up again is great.  I love visiting with this girl.  I love discovering how much we are alike.  We claim to be twins separated at birth.

We met at Kneaders for a quick treat.  We ended up getting two and sharing but ate the first one before we pulled the camera out.  Kneaders has yummy treats....everything there is great!  Our quick get together was still an hour.  I hope that Jodi was able to get some of her errands done and also some of her Christmas shopping checked off her list.

I'm just one blessed girl.  I love my friends.  I love the happiness and fun they add to my life.  Before meeting Jodi I had a little time and went and visited Teresa.  I wanted to meet her guy and also to see her.  I love visiting my friends....I hope they all know how wonderful they are to me!

Be Positive Anyway

I can't believe how a little bit of negativity can be so powerful.  I have heard a bit lately and I will say that it lingers in my head and isn't good.  I saw this quote after thinking about it and realize this is exactly right.  I need to evict those thoughts and not let them linger and take the place of the positive I try to fill my mind with.

I think it's interesting that sometimes the more you help and are their for others the more they expect and take you for granted. (only true for a few) I have a younger friend that has confided in me and asked for advice. When she was willing to listen it was easy knowing what to say.  I swear I was God's instrument and spoke to her for Him.  My thoughts and words surprised me and I knew where they had come from. It was a cool experience.  However, my sweet friend continued to error and got really down on herself.  I tried building her up only to be slammed.  I didn't feel I deserved any of that and she even apologized a few times but would turn right around a do it again.  I started pulling away and not responding to her babble.  Even though I knew she was just reacting and that it really wasn't about me it still hurt.

Yesterday it got ugly. (only her actions and words....somehow I was able to remain calm...I never got defensive...hmmmm sounds like the "spirit" was with me)  She was throwing around her negative and mean remarks but they turned from being about her miserable life to me.  If I tried to respond it was like throwing gas on a fire and so I told her I loved her and that she could choose what kind of day and life she wanted.  She started bashing the Church and me.  I testified that the Church was true and perfect but the members aren't and so we shouldn't judge the Church by the members.  (she was focusing on the negative anyway) She told me that I was "Such a Mormon".  I told her Thank You. She said that Mormon's always pull away from her when she tries discussing how controlling the church is.  I told her maybe it was because she was so negative and that the things she was saying just aren't true.  I guess that hurt her feelings.  I'm not going to lie.....this little exchange today bugged me.  I know this gal needs a friend but I also don't think it's right to allow someone to be so rude to you.  I would tell anyone else to let her go.....I can't quite do that.  I'm just hoping she really won't message me again.  I have a few CD's I want to send her and I will just pray my guts out for her.  I love her and she really is a much better person than she gives herself credit for.  This whole thing is so sad to me and I wish I didn't let it bother me.

We really do need to be more thoughtful of our actions and how they might affect someone else.  If we are unkind we need to be big enough to apologize.  I also think that we need to fill our minds and lives with positive things.  The positive chases away the negative.  It's hard to be angry or down with a smile on your face.  It's hard to be unhappy if we are thinking positive thoughts and doing things to make others happy.

I believe that once we allow negative in our lives it (the negative) gets greedy and pushes for more room and quickly fills that space with more negative.  When that happens if you can't get ahead of it get some help.  Pray harder, read the scriptures, go to the Temple, serve more, sing happy songs, surround yourself with good people, walk outside and breathe in the fresh air, look up and smile, look for the sunshine.  If those things don't turn things around go to the Doctor....don't allow yourself to wallow in the muck...it's  a miserable place to be.

a girls got to do what a girls got to do!

I needed a pedicure after going to Kauai.  The sand and ocean make a mess of one's toes.  I text Kathy to see if she wanted to go with me and of course she was delighted. (I text her from Kauai)  She had her first pedicure with me a few months ago and was ready for another one.  The gal's at the place talked her into a manicure as well.  I had my fingers done on Saturday so I declined but thought for $10 Kathy should have the experience if she wanted.  I think she liked it!  Oh my it feels good to get pampered every now and then.

I forgot to take pics (surprise) until we were done with our pedicures. (we were talking a lot) So, while Kathy got a manicure I sat in the massage chair and got a shot of her and my lovely toes!

Since it was lunch time we decided to go to lunch before going home.  I love their bread sticks.....yummmy! (we were at Pizza Factory) I love that Kathy saw them right away as a prop for her head. haha  She is so creative and silly.  We had a great time together...so much in fact that when I went to drop her off I ended up going inside to see a few of her things.  Plus, Kathy is going to help me make ornaments for Christmas this year.  I give my kids each an ornament every year that kind of goes along with what we did for that Christmas.  I'm excited to make these.  I will post later when they are made.

I appreciate my friends.  They all build me up...well that is not true...just today I had one messaging me on face book that was putting me down (ouch) but most build me up and inspire me to be better.  Even the one that wasn't nice still inspired me to be better....I like being called "You're So Mormon". (I think she meant to insult me but it didn't)  My friends make my life better....they just do!

I "Mustache" You

The Youth and their Parents were invited to a Fireside for "Standards Night".  It was a great fireside. Brother Webb (I think) spoke about how the commandments actually help us to be free.  The things that satan temps us with will eventually control us and we lose our free agency to our addictions. So if we want free agency we need to keep the commandments. Simple as that! Funny how the world thinks it's so different...good ol satan always lying...but seems to convince so many.  Another interesting thing Brother Webb said was that the consequence came before the commandments.  Heavenly Father gave us commandments to protect us and because they are good for our well being.

I didn't know the refreshments were mustache cookies but Kellie is a true friend and had my back. She let me know and then was kind enough to get in a few pictures with me...so I could make a memory! (it takes pictures to do that these days)  It was the end of a great day. Larry being release, Ivy's Primary Program (in the Spanish Branch), and birthday dinner for Zaden's birthday.

Time Out or Up

This picture was taken a few years ago but is perfect for this day!  Larry was released as the Bishop of the Shannondoah Ward and Bishop Gurney was called as the new Bishop!  I couldn't help but sing "Oh Happy Day".  Bishop Ropelato was a wonderful Bishop....the best in my opinion.  He was a spiritual giant that also knew how to have a good time. "Most" people loved him...but of course there were a few that thought they knew better.  I didn't care for those people....they caused my hubby too much stress that he didn't deserve.

Larry was a sensitive Bishop.  He teared up or cried almost every Sunday.  I knew him before those tears and I quite liked seeing them.  He is a humble man.  He followed the Spirit and did receive direct revelation from our Heavenly Father.  I loved watching him and I could tell when he was receiving revelation....it was an awesome experience for me.  I think most of the ward also knew and appreciated him for being worthy to receive revelation and to recognize it!  This truly is the Church of Jesus Christ...and Jesus does run it!

These last 5 years were the hardest of my entire life!  I'm not sure why....well I know a few reasons why. You can stop reading if you would rather not hear me complain. I try not to but this is real and it's my life and page so I'm going to say.  People can be so dumb sometimes.  They involve Bishops in things they don't need to.  They call the Bishop for other members phone numbers.  They threaten to hurt Bishops sometimes.  They text him instead of asking others who could also help.  They talk behind his back to others that tell.  They take up his time and take him away from his own family.  They cause physical problems....Larry would get hives.  I saw my hubby with hives as big as a dinner plate all over his body.  His lips have swelled up so big he was unrecognizable.  He couldn't sleep....he seldom slept an entire night.

Because of all the things Larry was dealing with because of the Ward Members I didn't feel like I could tell him my stuff....I didn't want to add to his already full plate.  We learned to keep our thoughts to ourselves.  We're both good at keeping confidences! (wink)  I don't think that is really a good thing for couples but we got through it!

I know Larry is a better person because of this calling.  I didn't think I was until I ran into another Bishop that was also being released.  He told me I was...and that got me thinking.  I realized that he was right.  I talked to Heavenly Father more than ever with real intent.  I needed Heavenly Father more since I didn't feel like I really could talk to Larry.  I was blessed with more friends that enjoy getting together and having fun.  My friends were a direct blessing from Heavenly Father and helped my life become meaningful.  I kind of feel like my friends need me almost as much as I need them....thank YOU Heavenly Father!  My testimony is stronger....I have a better understanding of how much Jesus loves us.....I still know it's so much more but what I do know is enough for me!  I saw how much Bishop Ropelato loved just our ward and it was incredible.  I'm a happier person now than 5 years ago and so that is a blessing to me and my family!

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is True!  It's complete and perfect!  I testify of that. I also Testify that Jesus is the Christ...our older brother.  He knows us and loves us more than we can even comprehend.  I testify that God lives and love us each individually and unconditionally!  I know that Joseph Smith restored the Gospel and that him and all the other prophets are true and have only guided us towards Heavenly Father and Mother. (that's so cool)  I testify that the scriptures talk to us. They are Gods voice and have the answer to our prayers in them.  I testify that God also speaks to us through others.....I'm starting to hear.  I know that this life is not the end....life is eternal and so our families!  I'm thankful for prayers.....I'm thankful for others prayers...God listens and answers.

I hope this feeling and knowledge lasts....I hope I will continue to rely on Heavenly Father.  Life is better when I let him guide me.

Kauai

I love having a time share in Kauai.  I know that we wouldn't be able to go there if we didn't.  This way we use it or lose it....we prefer to use it! We also use Sky Miles so our Airfare isn't anything. (only way to go) This year we scheduled our trip to be over our 33rd Wedding Anniversary.  It was pretty perfect!  

We left very early Nov 1 to the Airport to head to Kauai.  The nice thing about leaving early was we arrived early in the afternoon and could enjoy the wonderful scenery right off.  We drove around a little and went to the grocery store before trying to check in....we were still a bit early.  We were able to check in and I was thrilled with our room.  It's the best location of rooms we have ever had.  Our view was of the Ocean~so peaceful!  We listened to the ocean whenever we were in our room.  We decided that since this vacation was to relax and since we had such a great room we would enjoy it more than we normally enjoy a room.  We hung around the room a lot and watched movies and read and seriously just relaxed.  I enjoyed seeing my hubby relax....that was probably my favorite part of this vacation.  (I can't remember the last time I saw him relax)

I posted the picture of our view on Facebook and learned that Steve and Jill Lamb were coming to Kauai the very next day also celebrating their Anniversary. We thought it would be nice if we met up with them for a lunch or dinner.  They liked that idea and called us after they arrived.  They were there to relax too but still had a few things planned that they wanted to do.  We ended up seeing them 3 days and had a great time visiting with them all.  

We went for walks and ate shaved ice and we tried paddle boarding this time.  We ate out once a day and enjoyed little snacks at night.  We kept things simple which was a great thing.

With the Lambs we went paddle boarding again.  Larry and I planned on sharing a board but OOPS he forgot!  I was sitting on the beach and knew he wasn't coming back so I could take a turn.  I razzed him but actually thought it was funny.  The bright side was I wasn't salty.  He took me out for dinner the next night trying to make up for being forgetful....I seriously was fine with it.  The ocean wasn't as fun as the river or at least that's what Larry said.  (I was the watcher of everyone's stuff)

A few days later we went kayaking up a river and hiked to a waterfall with the Lambs.  Larry and I have done that a few other times on other vacations and this was the worst trail of all the times we have gone.  It was so muddy and slippery.  I was stiff that night from being so tense for the whole hike.  It was pretty though and so it was worth it.  I enjoy kayaking with Larry...it's one of our favorite things to do.

Larry and I went Miniature Golfing one day.  We went years ago when this place was first built and planted and the few years have made a huge difference in all the plants.  It was so pretty.  The last time we golfed here was with the Winters about 3 years ago and I was stinking it up because I didn't know the little mark on the putter meant anything.  This time I did much better and was staying neck and neck with Larry until the last few holes.....which I blew!  Oh well sometimes I would rather have Larry win~he is a better winner than loser.  We had fun!

 I loved this vacation.  Our Ward was told on Sunday that our Bishopric was being changed the following week and it was nice being away from all the talk and speculation.  It was nice coming home and having that change made. (That's why Larry was able to relax...he had taken care of all the issues that he could before we left)  Life can be so wonderful....if we take the time and let it be!

I'm Happy!

Yippee....another year has come and gone and we are still together and happy!  In fact I could say we are at one of our highest points of happy!  I guess all the trials and hard times really are worth it as we work through trials and grow closer. (I'd like to just try it on our own from here on out)  I'm happy for this guy of mine!  I'm happy that he took a chance and asked me to marry him.  I'm really happy I said "yes".  I'm happy that we haven't let our struggles divide us for very long.  I'm happy that we really haven't had any major ordeals and that early on we committed to work things out instead of throwing in the towel.  I'm thankful that we are both much better today than when we married.  I'm thankful for the way Larry has treated me and taken care of me and our kids.  I'm thankful that Larry is easy to please.....small things matter to him....he likes my texts....I like his too!

I'm thankful for all the fun adventures we have had together.  This guy has shown me so many parts of this beautiful world I would never dreamed of seeing.  He's taken me to places like: Italy, New Zealand, Australia, Germany, Israel, Meso America, Hawaii, and all over the United States.  It's been fun being his travel companion. I'm thankful that Larry has dreams and makes them come true as well as making my small dreams come true as well!  I'm happy that he even takes me Disneyland every now and then because I love it...he's that cool!

I'm happy that Larry loves the Lord and follows Him.  I'm happy that he feels the "Spirit of God".  I'm happy that he makes good choices and isn't tempted easily.  I'm thankful that he listens to me even if sometimes I have to talk loud so he will. (kind of kidding....but sometimes it does take a few times of saying something before he really gets it)  I'm happy that he doesn't point out my faults and imperfections....I know them and I don't need anyone reminding me or making sure I didn't miss any.

I'm just happy for the 33 years we have shared and look forward to forever with this kind, caring, respectful, funny, tender, sensitive, hard working guy of mine. (he really is this great!)